Bit Boss

Unknown

late 16th–17th century · Copper alloy, gold · Arms and Armor

Bit bosses were ornamental elements decorating both sides of a horse bit. These hat-shape bit bosses, probably inspired by Ancient shield bosses excavated at the time, were very popular in Italy and France in the 16th and the early 17th century.

Artist

Unknown

Date

late 16th–17th century

Medium

Copper alloy, gold

Culture

Italian or French

Department

Arms and Armor

Credit line

Gift of Stephen V. Grancsay, 1942